Which fire part is defined as the sides of the fire parallel to the main direction of spread?

The flanks of a fire refer to the sides that run parallel to the main direction of spread. Understanding this definition is crucial for effective fire management and suppression strategies. Recognizing the flanks allows firefighters to assess how the fire might progress and strategize their approach to controlling it. The flanks are typically where the fire is more contained compared to the head, which is the leading edge of the fire, and understanding the behavior of the flanks is essential for predicting changes in fire behavior and planning suppression tactics. This terminology is integral to communicating effectively within firefighting teams and coordinating response efforts during wildland fire incidents.